Rebate rise to ease cost of birth control

WOMEN across Geelong, the Bellarine and Surf Coast will benefit from cheaper contraception and improved access to care under the next stage of the federal government’s $790 million women’s health package.

From November 1, the Medicare rebates for long-acting contraceptives such as intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) and birth control implant procedures will increase.

The reforms, pledged in February ahead of the federal election, will see rebates for IUD insertions rise from $93.55 to $215.95, and implant insertions rise from $41.50 to $100.40, increases of up to 140 per cent.

The move is designed to make long-acting reversible contraception more affordable, particularly for women in regional and rural areas, and to better reflect the time and skill required to insert them.

The rebates are also expected to increase uptake of the contraception devices, which are considered the most effective option, and save up to $400 in out-of-pocket expenses for about 300,000 women each year.

A new 40 per cent bulk-billing incentive will also be introduced to encourage health professionals to provide long-acting contraception services, and the federal government will fund training to boost the number of practitioners able to provide these services.

Federal member for Corangamite Libby Coker said the reforms would help address the access barriers faced by women in the region.

“For women across the Bellarine, Surf Coast and Geelong region, this is about fairness. It’s about making sure that every woman can make informed decisions about her health without financial pressure standing in the way.”

“Too many women in our region still face barriers when it comes to managing their own health, from the cost of contraception to the time it takes to find a qualified practitioner. The next stage of the women’s health package will help address these gaps in our health system.”

Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Rebecca White said the changes would give women genuine choice about what works for them.

“We understand women shouldn’t have to jump through hoops or face large out-of-pocket costs to get the care they need. Costs and access have too often determined a woman’s contraception options. The changes we’re delivering will help ensure women’s health care decisions are made in consultation with a health professional, not their bank balance.”